Some travel destinations like Japan and Korea are best explored during a particular season. The blossoming of flowers or pleasant temperatures highlight the country’s already-exciting attractions. Hotels.com identifies 4 cities in South Korea and Japan that transform into a haven of red and scarlet leaves in October. In addition, Hotels.com is also offering hotel deals that are only valid for the period of this beautiful season.
Japan
Colorful autumn leaves, known as koyo in Japanese, draw just as many visitors in autumn as the cherry blossoms do during spring. The viewing of autumn leaves has been a popular activity in Japan for centuries. Today, tourists still set out from all over the country to find the best spots to view the beauty of the stunning blend of yellow, orange and red leaves. The season lasts from September through to early November, depending on the weather and location.
1. Furano, Hotel Sunfuraton, from RM 353 per night
Japan is well-known for being a country that is filled with many famed tourist attractions, Furano is a true gem as it is located far away from the hustle and bustle of the city, and holds many treats for the eyes. This October, travel by foot to Tonurima Park, as the marshlands turns into a beautiful fiery red that is truly a scene to behold. Free boat rides (yes, free!) are also available – rowboats are tied to the banks for visitors to row their way around the crystal clear lake while taking in the breathtaking view of autumn leaves.
2. Niseko, Hotel Niseko Alpen, from RM 577 per night
A top destination in Hokkaido, enjoy the peaceful view of red leaves swirling in the wind, with a backdrop of crystal clear lakes. For the more adventurous, you can opt to watch the view from a completely different perspective by hiking to a viewing point given the many hiking trails Niseko has to offer. Popular spots among hikers are Mount Annupuri and Mount Yotei. Accomodation wise, Hotel Niseko Alpen is a great choice. That is because it is located right in front of the Grand Hirafu Ski Resort and offers hot-spring baths, a “ganbanyoku†stone sauna, and an indoor pool.
South Korea
In autumn, South Korea is painted with a palette of wonderful hues – from rich browns to bright oranges and burning crimson. You will be happy to know that even the common streets are a sight to behold – making every photo you take an Instagram-worthy one.
3. Seoul, Sejong Hotel, from RM 385 per night
When in Seoul, visit the Seoul Forest. It’s a massive park with various exhibits – insect garden, art park and water slide park. Large areas filled with striking orange foliage are perfect for an old-school picnic session with your travel buddies. Alternatively, take a train to Hyeonchoongsa Tree-Lined Street in Cheonan-Si. The almost 2 kilometres road is lined with picturesque golden-green trees during Autumn. It does make up for the 1 hour train ride. Furthermore, there are no cars on the street as it is not allowed. This enables you to enjoy the view at your own pace, undisturbed.
4. Incheon, Incheon Airport Hotel Queen, from RM 282 per night
Incheon offers a wide variety of beautiful destinations to visit in Autumn, but the Incheon Grand Park takes the cake. There are many tree-laden walkways in this park. It is really an ideal place to view the annual changes of the leaves. Any photography taken here will look like a scene out of a romantic Korean drama. Why not take a breather and relax here. There are ponds overlooking a vast landscape of varied flora.
Autumn will not be here for long. So avoid missing out on the opportunity to view these panoramas with your own eyes. You can do so while saving on accommodation! Visit https://www.hotels.com/hotel-deals/autumnleaves-asia/ to get more inspiration on your fall foliage getaway and to uncover the beauty of fall with Hotels.com.